The 2006-07 school year will bring a new face to gymnastics at Andrews University--Coach Christian Lighthall. Gymnastics runs through Lighthall's veins. Both an experienced gymnast and coach, Lighthall comes to Andrews from Mount Pisgah Academy in North Carolina, where he has coached and taught since 1999. He also spent three years as a coach at Hinsdale Adventist Academy in Ill. and one year at Monterey Bay Academy in Monterey, Calif. In 1995, Lighthall graduated with a degree in physical education from Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tenn., where he was a member on the Gym-Masters team for five years. But his love for gymnastics stretches back through his days on the Bass Memorial Academy team.

Lighthall brings with him not only fresh ideas for routines and stunts, but a passion for the sport and the Andrews University Gymnics tradition. "Andrews has a long tradition of gymnastics and is really the birthplace of Adventist gymnastics," he notes. "My goal is to expand and continue the Gymnics legacy, as well as take the program to a new level of excellence. My idea of a strong team is not only based on the performance presented on the mat. A Christ-centered team that is bonded closely together can accomplish many incredible things and touch many lives. My primary goal as a coach is for the Gymnics to be a trophy for Christ."

Lighthall joins the Andrews community with his wife of 11 years, Brandee, and their two pet boxers. When he's not spotting back flips and choreographing floor routines, Lighthall enjoys traveling, reading, photography, and of course, sports.